The operator of California's power grid is asking the public to help voluntarily conserve electricity as the Southland bakes during the latest heat wave.
The California Independent System Operator says thanks to high energy demand, a Flex Alert will be in effect from 2 pm to 9pm Tuesday evening. Energy demand for today is forecast to exceed 48,000 megawatts, which would be the highest recorded demand on the grid so far this year.
Officials are asking consumers to conserve energy in the late afternoon when air conditioners are at peak usage. People are asked to use major appliances before or after the Flex Alert period with air conditioners set at 78 degrees or higher.